A stone bruise is a common foot injury, a deep bruise affecting the fat pad underneath the heel bone. It often results from direct impact or repetitive stress on the heel. It can affect daily activities, making walking or standing uncomfortable.
Understanding a Stone Bruise
A stone bruise causes sharp heel pain, especially when walking or putting weight on the foot. The affected area may feel tender, and some report a tingling or burning sensation. While a visible bruise with discoloration can occur, it is not always present.
A stone bruise commonly results from stepping on a hard object or from repetitive impacts during activities like running or jumping. It is distinct from other heel pains, such as plantar fasciitis, which usually presents as a dull, aching pain that may improve with walking.
Immediate Home Care
Initial treatment focuses on reducing pain and promoting healing, often by following the RICE method: Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation. Resting the injured foot is paramount, avoiding aggravating activities. Limiting weight-bearing allows damaged tissues to heal.
Applying ice to the bruised area for 10-20 minutes reduces swelling and discomfort. Wrap the ice pack in a cloth to prevent direct skin contact.
Compression, such as taping the heel, provides support and helps prevent further injury, though it may restrict flexibility. Elevating the foot above heart level, especially when resting, assists in reducing swelling.
Over-the-counter pain relievers, like ibuprofen or acetaminophen, manage pain and inflammation. During recovery, wear comfortable, cushioned shoes to reduce pressure on the injured heel. Avoid walking barefoot, particularly on hard surfaces, to prevent worsening the condition. A stone bruise typically takes 2 to 6 weeks to heal, with duration depending on severity.
Preventing Future Bruises
Preventing stone bruises involves proactive measures to protect the heel from impact and stress. Selecting appropriate footwear with adequate cushioning and shock-absorbing technology is a primary step, especially for activities involving repetitive foot impact.
Incorporating heel pads or orthotic inserts into footwear provides additional shock absorption and support, distributing pressure more evenly across the foot.
Regularly inspecting walking paths for hazards like stones or uneven ground and being mindful of foot placement reduces the risk of accidental impacts. For those in physical activities, a proper warm-up and cool-down, along with gradually increasing workout intensity, helps the feet adapt and prevent injury.
When to Seek Professional Help
While many stone bruises can be managed with home care, certain signs indicate professional medical evaluation. If pain persists or worsens despite home treatment, or lasts longer than a week or two, a doctor’s visit is advisable.
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience inability to bear weight on the foot, significant swelling, numbness, or tingling. Signs of infection, such as increasing redness, warmth, or pus around the bruise, warrant prompt medical consultation.
A healthcare provider can accurately diagnose the condition, rule out serious injuries like a fracture, and recommend an appropriate treatment plan.